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November 16, 2024
SaharaReporters had reported in May 2024 that Emeh, who exposed an organ trafficking ring in the Anambra State Command of the Nigeria Police Force was in incarceration despite meeting his bail conditions.
The Nigeria Police Force has insisted that it followed laid down procedures in the arrest and trial of Nnamdi Emeh, the whistleblower who exposed an organ trafficking ring among the police in Anambra State.
The police stated its position in a press statement on Saturday signed by ACP Adejobi Olumuyiwa, the Force Public Relations Officer.
SaharaReporters had reported in May 2024 that Emeh, who exposed an organ trafficking ring in the Anambra State Command of the Nigeria Police Force was in incarceration despite meeting his bail conditions.
SaharaReporters had learnt that though his release warrant has been signed since May 15, 2024, court officials have been frustrating his release.
Similarly, in October 2023, Nnamdi Emeh petitioned the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court in Abuja over his continued incarceration despite being granted bail.
Emeh in the petition dated October 3, 2023, through his Counsel, Justus Ijeoma had accused the Deputy Chief Registrar, Federal High Court in Awka, Nkem Mba, of alleged “unprofessional conduct” in processing his bail because his family could not pay N1 million she allegedly demanded as gratification to process the bail.
Speaking on Saturday, the police spokesman, Adejobi, said, "The attention of the Nigeria Police Force has been drawn to recent reports circulating in the media concerning one Mr. Nnamdi Emeh, who is currently facing trial for alleged criminal offences.
“The NPF wishes to clarify that Mr. Emeh was lawfully apprehended following credible allegations against him, which were thoroughly investigated and presented before a competent court of law.”
“The charges preferred against him were duly filed, and he was arraigned before the Federal High Court, Awka, in line with due process."
The police stated that the decisions on bail requirements of Emeh were made by the judiciary which operates as an independent arm of government.
“It is important to emphasize that the judiciary operates independently, and the court retains the exclusive prerogative to evaluate the evidence presented, determine bail conditions, and take any further necessary actions as guided by the law. Mr. Emeh was granted bail on terms established by the court.
“It therefore behoves on the suspect to take steps to meet such conditions and not resort to unecessary media rampage.”
The police noted that it was committed to upholding the rule of law.
“The NPF reaffirms its commitment to upholding the rule of law, ensuring justice, and maintaining the highest standards of professionalism. The Force is also mindful of its duty to investigate allegations against all persons, including its officers, and to subject any suspect to the established legal process.”
“While the case against Mr. Emeh continues in court, we appeal to the public to allow the judicial process to take its full course without undue speculation or interference.”
Emeh was admitted to bail by Justice F. O. Riman, who is presiding over the 12 charges the police brought against him on May 17, 2023
Nnamdi, who is currently in Awka prison, has been transferred from prison to prison, and still awaiting trial despite being in detention for close to two years, while the police officers implicated in organ trafficking are being shielded from prosecution by the police authorities.